Princess Kate's second wedding dress was sweet but 'she didn’t have a chance to relax'

Fashion and royal expert Miranda Holder explained that some royals like to change into a second wedding dress after the religious ceremony.

Second wedding dresses, which are normally worn for the reception at the Palace, are more relaxed and give royals the chance to choose what they really like and express their personality.

Miranda commented: “I’m all for second wedding dresses – budget and time allowing, your wedding is an occasion where all eyes are on you.

“Being a celebrity or royal and getting married increases the pressure significantly so a second dress is a great idea, as it allows the bride to enjoy a variety of looks.

“Often on these occasions, the first bridal gown is a formality, a family heirloom, a political statement or part of the larger PR machine that surrounds them.

“Having a second option allows these blushing brides a moment to fully express who they really are, how they want to look – and more importantly feel – once the initial formalities of the ceremony and official photographs are over.”

The Princess of Wales chose an elegant but simple satin dress with a cream cardigan for her wedding reception at Buckingham Palace. The reception hosted by Queen Elizabeth II was followed by a dinner dance for 300 guests.

The style expert suggested: “Unusually, the Princess of Wales kept up the formalities with her second look, but simply scaled down in terms of grandeur and lost her enormous train.

“The dress is simple and sweet, the cardigan very pretty, but it feels like she didn’t have the opportunity to really relax on this occasion.”